AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) – A special study group is recommending to Maine lawmakers that gambling in the state be expanded.
The Gaming Commission voted 10-8 in favor of the recommendation on Friday. It was brought forward by hospitality industry representatives and tribal leaders on the commission, who have long wanted casinos.

It urges the Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee to support legislation for a number of new gambling opportunities, including allowing the Passamaquoddy Tribe to operate slot machines and table games and veterans’ organizations to put slot machines in their posts.

It was opposed by casino managers and the Democratic co-chairs of the commission who say it’s pushing the proliferation of gambling in Maine without looking at the consequences on existing casinos and the economy.